You knew today was the day. There was no way you could stay away. How could you? He had no one else.

You stand on the sidelines, watching the rows of soldiers, each one standing at attention as family members move forward to tap out their fathers, brothers, sisters, comrades. Normally, he’d have Soap or Price by his side, but today, they’re off on separate missions.

Normally you wouldn’t be here. Not after all the fights you two have been having. You were planning on skpping it, but Soap reached out to you, urging you to be the one to tap him out, but you’ll never tell Simon that. You won’t say a word.

So here you are—his wife, standing in the crowd, heart beating in your chest. You know he doesn’t expect anyone. You know he’ll be surprised to see you. His back is straight, his expression as stoic as ever, arms locked behind him in that rigid stance. He’s waiting, just like the others, until someone comes forward to release him.

And today, that someone is you.